Step-by-step guide to making your Will

Before drafting your Will, take inventory of your assets. This includes everything you own, such as:

• Property (homes, land)
• Vehicles
• Savings and investments (bank accounts, stocks, bonds)
• Personal items (jewelry, art, collectibles)
• Life insurance policies
• Business interests

Having a clear understanding of what you own Will make it easier to divide your estate. You can download our free template here for listing what you own and owe:

Once you have a list of assets, think about who you want to inherit them. Beneficiaries are the people or organisations (such as charities) that will receive your assets. You may decide to leave specific items to certain individuals or allocate a percentage of your estate to each beneficiary.

An executor is the person responsible for carrying out the terms of your Will after you pass away. This role involves managing your estate, paying off debts, and distributing assets to your beneficiaries. Choose someone you trust, such as a family member, close friend, or legal professional. Be sure to discuss your decision with them beforehand to ensure they are willing to take on this responsibility.

If you have children under the age of 18, you’ll need to appoint guardians who will take care of them in the event of your death. This is one of the most important decisions you will make in your Will. Consider people you trust to provide the care and support your children need. Speak to potential guardians to make sure they are comfortable with this responsibility.

Aside from children, you might have pets who will need to be taken care of. Decide who you would like to become your pets’ caregiver and discuss with them first to agree this. You can also allocate funds for the care of your pet by leaving money to the person you’ve assigned as their caregiver, and specifying what these funds are for.

If you want to leave a gift to charity, decide how much you want to donate and which organisations you’d like to support. You can leave a fixed sum, a percentage of your estate, or specific assets. Be sure to include the full name and registered charity number to ensure your donation goes to the correct organisation.

Not sure which charity to include in your Will? Read about how you can leave a legacy and transform lives with Ripple Effect.

Although it’s possible to write a Will on your own, consulting with a solicitor or legal expert is highly recommended. A solicitor can ensure your will is legally binding and correctly drafted, helping you avoid potential disputes or complications. They will also be able to advise you on any tax implications or specific legal requirements in your jurisdiction.

Once you’ve gathered all the necessary information and made key decisions, it’s time to write your Will. If you’re working with a solicitor, they will guide you through the process. If you choose to draft your Will on your own, ensure it includes:

• Your personal details: full name, address, and date of birth.
• Your beneficiaries: who they are and what portion or specific assets they will receive.
• Your executor(s): the person or people responsible for managing your estate.
• Guardians for minor children: their names and confirmation of their agreement to take on this role.
• Specific instructions: details on how you want your assets distributed or managed.
• Signatures and witnesses: To make your will valid, it must be signed by you and witnessed by two individuals (who are not beneficiaries).

Did you know you can write your Will for free using our service on Farewill?

After your Will is signed and witnessed, keep it in a secure place, such as a fireproof safe or with your solicitor. It’s also important to inform your executor and close family members where the original copy is stored, as they will need to access it when the time comes.

Life changes, and so might your wishes. Major events like marriage, divorce, the birth of children, or significant changes in your assets may require you to update your Will. Make it a habit to review your Will every few years and amend it if necessary.

Although you don’t need to go into detail, it’s a good idea to let your beneficiaries, executor, and family know about your general wishes. This can help prevent misunderstandings or conflicts after your passing.

Creating a Will is an essential part of planning for the future. By following these steps, you can ensure your loved ones are taken care of and your assets are distributed according to your wishes. With careful planning and legal guidance, making a will can be a straightforward process that provides peace of mind for both you and your family.

Read Tricia’s story - why she left a gift in her will to Ripple Effect.

Want to learn more about including a charity donation in your Will? Read our questions answered blog here.

If you would like to speak to us about leaving a charity gift in your Will or for more information before you make your decision, please contact Ann by calling 01225 874 222 or emailing ann.hatton@rippleeffect.org.